As the spring transfer portal window heats up, former Notre Dame safety Kennedy Urlacher has quickly emerged as one of the most fascinating names on the market, and it appears his next destination is already taking shape behind the scenes.
Urlacher, a freshman safety and the son of NFL Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher, entered the portal with a “Do Not Contact” tag, indicating that he already had a preferred landing spot in mind.
Insiders now believe the Big Ten is the most probable conference to land him, with considerable speculation focusing on the Nebraska Cornhuskers.
Kennedy Urlacher Transfer Portal Buzz: Big Ten Program Emerges as Front-Runner for ‘Do Not Contact’ Safety
Here’s a breakdown of the 10 programs predicted as potential landing spots for Kennedy Urlacher –
Nebraska Cornhuskers
Nebraska is widely considered the frontrunner. Head coach Matt Rhule has prioritized rebuilding the defense, and Urlacher fits in exceptionally with DC Tony White’s rugged 3-3-5 style. The Cornhuskers were very active in their high school recruitment.
UCLA Bruins
The Bruins are transitioning into the Big Ten and are actively looking for defensive upgrades. With new head coach DeShaun Foster taking over, the focus is on aggressive playmakers in the secondary, which Urlacher could instantly impact.
Michigan State Spartans
The Spartans’ new head coach, Jonathan Smith, focuses on addressing their defense after an awful 2023. Urlacher could develop quickly in a system that provides toughness and football IQ.
TCU Horned Frogs
TCU is well-known for developing defensive prospects, and Urlacher could be the latest product of its hands-on coaching approach. In this month’s transfer portal, they’ll be significant contenders for the former Notre Dame DB.
Wisconsin Badgers
Wisconsin, known for its rigorous, relentlessly defensive culture, could offer Urlacher a position in a seasoned safety room. Head coach Luke Fickell’s defensive prowess and development track record are significant selling attributes.
Illinois Fighting Illini
With head coach Bret Bielema’s strong defensive identity, Illinois remains a sleeper option. The Illini have quietly developed several NFL-caliber defensive backs recently, and Urlacher could benefit from their solid development system.
Purdue Boilermakers
Purdue is in the midst of a defensive rebuild, which could allow Urlacher to compete for immediate playing time. Head coach Ryan Walters, a former star safety, has a reputation for mentoring young defensive backs.
Iowa Hawkeyes
Iowa’s defense, commanded by Phil Parker, is one of the most consistent in the nation. The Hawkeyes produce elite defensive backs, and Urlacher’s high football IQ would complement their zone-heavy system.
Minnesota Golden Gophers
P.J. Fleck’s Gophers are quietly developing one of the Big Ten’s finest defenses. Urlacher could advance to a leadership role in a developmental program that values consistency and principles.
Indiana Hoosiers
With new head coach Curt Cignetti in charge, Indiana hopes to make a statement in the Big Ten. Urlacher would be a key piece for a rebuilt defense aiming to establish a more aggressive identity.
Cornhuskers Favorites to Land Safety
According to On3’s transfer portal analyst Pete Nakos, Nebraska is emerging as the best option for Urlacher. The Huskers were actively involved in Urlacher’s first recruitment before he chose Notre Dame. Nebraska, led by head coach Matt Rhule and defensive coordinator Tony White, is developing a strong defensive identity that could offer Urlacher a fast track to playing time and growth.
The “Do Not Contact” designation indicates that Urlacher and his camp are not interested in receiving offers from programs not already discussed directly on the portal.
This often indicates that the player has already narrowed his options or discreetly committed to a new institution. In Urlacher’s scenario, the frenzy around Nebraska has only grown since the tag was announced.
Also Read: Julian Neal Transfer Portal: Landing Spots for Top 5 CB Amid Scheduled Visits
If the projections are correct, Urlacher could head to Nebraska as soon as the current semester concludes, putting him eligible for summer workouts and fall camp.
With a full year of eligibility and four years to play three, he could be a long-term contributor to any defense that signs him.
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